RE Curriculum
Overview
At Rathfern Primary School, Religious Education is a vital part of our curriculum — nurturing curiosity, respect, and understanding of the diverse world in which we live. Rooted in the Lewisham Agreed Syllabus and guided by the principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), our RE curriculum inspires children to explore faith, belief, and meaning with openness and empathy.
Through engaging lessons, visits to places of worship, and interactions with faith representatives, pupils learn about a range of world religions and worldviews. They are encouraged to ask big questions, think deeply about moral and spiritual issues, and reflect on their own values and identity.
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Our approach promotes respect, tolerance, and inclusion, helping children understand how beliefs shape lives, cultures, and communities — locally and globally.
By celebrating faith assemblies, RE days, and multi-faith experiences, we empower pupils to become thoughtful, compassionate citizens who appreciate diversity and contribute positively to society. |
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Intent
At Rathfern Primary School, we aim to develop children’s knowledge and understanding of religions and worldviews while fostering respect and tolerance for all beliefs. Our RE curriculum is rooted in the Lewisham Agreed Syllabus and enriched by our commitment to equity, inclusion, and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).
It encourages pupils to explore deep questions about life, morality, and spirituality while reflecting on their own beliefs.
Lewisham Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education
lewisham agreed syllabus for religious education 2.pdf
keystage1and2faithcontent 2.pdf
Implementation
Foundation Stage
In the Early Years Foundation Stage, children begin to explore religion through sensory experiences, stories, and imaginative play. They are introduced to special people, books, times, places, and objects from different faiths. Children are encouraged to reflect on their own feelings and experiences, using curiosity and creativity to develop a sense of awe and wonder about the world around them.
Key Stage 1
In Key Stage 1, pupils explore Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism. They begin to learn about different beliefs about God, the world, and how people live their faith. Through stories, artefacts, and discussion, children develop an understanding of how beliefs are expressed and why they matter to individuals and communities. They are encouraged to ask questions, use specialist vocabulary, and reflect on their own values and those of others.
Key Stage 2
In Key Stage 2, pupils deepen their understanding of Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and Sikhism. They explore the impact of religion and belief locally, nationally, and globally. Children learn to make connections between beliefs, teachings, practices, and forms of expression. They study sacred texts and consider their meanings, while recognising diversity within and between religions. Pupils are encouraged to think critically, engage in respectful dialogue, and reflect on moral and ethical questions.
Our Approach
1. The Three Pillars of Progression
Substantive Knowledge
Learning about religious and non-religious traditions.
Ways of Knowing
Understanding how to explore and interpret religious perspectives.
Personal Knowledge
Reflecting on one’s own beliefs, values, and assumptions.
2. Creative and Inclusive Learning
We also integrate art, music, drama, and outdoor learning to make RE engaging and meaningful. Pupils are supported in articulating their learning through discussion, debate, and creative expression.
3. Celebrating Faith and Community
Faith Assemblies celebrate the religious beliefs, values, traditions, and customs of families in our school community.
4. Reflective and Responsive Teaching
Pupil Interviews offer first-hand feedback so planning and lessons can be refined and adapted to support all pupils.
Differentiated Learning ensures that, where possible, pupils with additional needs (SEN) learn about the faith they practice.
Book Looks across KS1 and KS2 help monitor sequencing and skill progression, focusing on:
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Thinking about religion and belief
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Enquiring, Investigating, and Interpreting
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Beliefs and Teachings (what people believe)
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Practices and Lifestyles (what people do)
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Expression and Language (how people express themselves)
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Identity and Experience (who we are)
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Meaning and Purpose (making sense of life)
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Values and Commitments (right and wrong)
5. Community Involvement
Parent Volunteers are encouraged to participate as faith experts, enriching pupils’ understanding of different beliefs and traditions within our community.
By exploring diverse religious and spiritual traditions, we aim to build a cohesive and inclusive school community that celebrates multi-faith perspectives and prepares children to contribute positively to society.
Curriculum Aims
Our R.E lessons aim to:
- Encourage deep reflection and questioning about religion and its role in the world.
- Foster respect and appreciation for different cultures, including our own local community.
- Provide opportunities for personal reflection and encourage pupils to contribute positively to society.
- Develop knowledge and understanding of how beliefs shape lives and influence others.
- Promote creativity and engagement using art, music, drama, and outdoor learning.
- Support pupils in articulating their learning through discussion, debate, and critical thinking.
Religions Studied at Rathfern Primary School:
| Key Stage 1 (KS1) | Key Stage 2 (KS2) |
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Incorporating Global Awareness & Social Responsibility
- Our R.E. curriculum aligns with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), ensuring that pupils develop a strong sense of global citizenship
- We make links to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)- Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions (SDG 16) as well as the UNCRC Rights of a child - Right to Express Views and Be Heard (Article 12 & 13), Right to Freedom of Thought, Conscience, and Religion (Article 14); encouraging children to reflect on their moral, social, and cultural responsibilities.
By exploring diverse religious and spiritual traditions, we build a cohesive and inclusive school community, celebrating multi-faith perspectives.
Rathfern R.E Curriculum Overview:
rathfern re curriculum overview.pdf
Rathfern R.E Skills Progression:
rathfern re skills progression 3.pdf
Impact
At Rathfern Primary School, the impact of our Religious Education (RE) curriculum is evident in the way children develop a deep respect for diversity, a strong sense of identity, and the ability to engage thoughtfully with the beliefs and values of others. Our RE provision supports the whole child—academically, socially, morally, and spiritually.
Key Areas of Impact:
Knowledge and Understanding
Pupils leave each key stage with a understanding of key beliefs, practices, and traditions across the six principal world religions. They recap and make links on religious concepts using appropriate vocabulary and make connections between different faiths and worldviews.
Critical Thinking and Reflection
Children are encouraged to ask meaningful questions, reflect on moral and ethical issues, and consider different perspectives. This helps them develop empathy, reasoning skills, and the ability to articulate their own beliefs respectfully.
Personal Growth and Identity
Through RE, pupils explore their own values and beliefs in a safe and inclusive environment. This nurtures self-awareness, confidence, and a sense of belonging, aligned with Rathfern’s commitment to the UNCRC and inclusive education.
Community and Global Awareness
Pupils understand the role of religion in shaping communities and cultures both locally and globally. They are prepared to be respectful, informed citizens who value diversity and promote social harmony.
Progression and Achievement
Teacher Assessments in RE shows that pupils make strong progress across all year groups. They build on prior knowledge, deepen their understanding, and demonstrate increasing sophistication in their thinking and expression.
Gallery
judaism faith assembly 26 sept 2025 newsletter.pdf
eid mubarak from rathfern 25th of june 2024.pdf
iftar at rathfern 3march2025.pdf
re year 2 visit to lewisham sivan temple.pdf
